Jandowae Showground – Western Downs Camping
Nestled in the heart of Queensland’s rich agricultural plains, the Jandowae Showground offers travellers a warm and authentic country welcome. Known affectionately as ‘Timbertown’, Jandowae is a community that prides itself on its heritage and hospitality, and the local showground is a perfect reflection of this spirit. This is an ideal stopover for those exploring the Western Downs region, offering a peaceful, safe, and incredibly spacious camping experience at a very reasonable price. The grounds provide a vast expanse of flat, grassy land, ensuring that even during busier periods, campers have an abundance of personal space. It’s particularly well-suited to large rigs and caravans, with easy access and plenty of room to manoeuvre.
The camping area is managed by the local community, and the modest fees collected go directly back into maintaining the grounds and the town’s facilities. Campers can choose from powered and unpowered sites, with access to a clean and well-kept amenities block that includes toilets and hot showers. The convenience of being located right in town is a significant advantage. A short, pleasant walk will take you to the main street, where you can find two classic country pubs, a grocery store, a bakery, and friendly locals happy to share a story or two. Jandowae is also a great base for exploring local points of interest, such as the Dingo Barrier Fence and the historic Athlone Cottage. For travellers seeking a break from the hustle and bustle, who appreciate genuine community spirit, starry country nights, and the simple comforts of a classic showground stay, Jandowae is a truly delightful and rewarding destination.
Warra St, Jandowae QLD 4410
Phone: Not available
Website: Not available
Site Information
- Site Suitable For: Tents, Camper Trailers, Caravans, Motorhomes, Big Rigs.
- Road Access: Sealed road.
- Site Surface: Mostly grass, some gravel/dirt areas.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, powered and unpowered sites available. Low fees apply, often collected by a caretaker or via an honesty box.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Generally up to 7 days, check local signage.
- Facilities: Toilets, hot showers.
- Potable Water: Yes, available on site.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Good for Telstra, may be patchy for other carriers.
- TV Reception: Good.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
- Rubbish Bins: Yes.
- Open Fires: Generally not permitted. Check for local signage and fire bans.
- Generator Use: Permitted during respectful hours.
- Number of Sites Available: 100+ unmarked sites.
- Essentials to Bring: Cash for fees, levelling blocks.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome on a leash.
- Fishing: Limited opportunities in nearby Jandowae Dam.
- Short Walks: Yes, around the grounds and into town.
Local Amenities
Pubs
- The Jandowae Hotel: 1 km
- Club Hotel Jandowae: 1 km
- The Russell Tavern, Dalby: 48 km
Places to Eat
- The Exchange Cafe: 1 km
- Jandowae Hotel (Bistro): 1 km
- Jandowae Bakery: 1.1 km
Local Attractions
- Athlone Cottage Museum: 1.2 km
- Jandowae Dam: 4 km
- Dingo Barrier Fence (viewing point): 15 km
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Dalby Tourist Park: 48 km
- Pioneer Caravan Park, Dalby: 49 km
- Chinchilla Tourist Park: 85 km
Next Free Camps
- Warra Rest Area: 25 km
- Chinchilla Weir: 78 km
- Lake Broadwater Conservation Park (low cost): 75 km
Services
- Nearest Dump Point: At Jandowae Showgrounds or nearby council facility.
- Nearest Petrol Station: Jandowae – 1.5 km
- Drinking Water Resupply: On site.
- Public Toilets: On site and in town.
Seasonal Weather Forecast: Jandowae / Western Downs
The Western Downs region has a subtropical climate with distinct seasons, characterised by hot summers and cool, dry winters.
- Summer (Dec – Feb): Hot and sometimes humid, with average temperatures from 20°C to 34°C. This is the wettest time of year, with rainfall often coming from thunderstorms.
- Autumn (Mar – May): Warm and generally dry with clear skies. Temperatures are very pleasant, averaging 13°C to 28°C.
- Winter (Jun – Aug): Mild, sunny days with cold nights and mornings. Average temperatures range from 4°C to 21°C. Frosts are common overnight.
- Spring (Sep – Nov): A dry season with temperatures warming up quickly. Averages range from 12°C to 31°C.